Many traumatic brain injury patients later readmitted

It is easy to believe that treatment for a traumatic brain injury ends when the patient is cleared by a medical professional and discharged from the hospital. However, a recent study by Canadian researchers, published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, shows that this is not true.

The study took into account approximately 30,000 patients discharged from Ontario hospitals after treatment for a traumatic brain injury.

The final result of the study is astonishing: roughly 36 percent of patients were readmitted within three years of initial treatment. Readmission was related to numerous factors, such as age and existing level of health.

The lead study author noted the following: “Re-hospitalisations affects patients’ quality of life and put a strain on the healthcare system.”

As found in previous studies, a traumatic brain injury patient released from the hospital with a mental health condition has a greater chance of readmission.

Conversely, those who were injured in a motor vehicle accident have less chance of being readmitted to a medical facility.

While the early data from the study is interesting enough, the researchers have intentions of digging deeper for additional information. They hope to complete additional research in search for insight that will help reduce traumatic brain injury readmissions in the future.

When a person suffers a traumatic brain injury, it is essential that he or she receives the appropriate care following the accident. This improves their chances of avoiding serious injury, while lessening the chance of being readmitted. Not only does readmission mean the patient is suffering from a medical condition, but it also has the potential to cause financial stress.

Source: Nursing Times, “Third of traumatic brain injury patients readmitted,” Steve Ford, May 26, 2015